The CAT4 Cognitive Abilities Test Level C

What Is the CAT4 Exam?

The CAT4 (Cognitive Abilities Test) is a popular cognitive ability exam that students take between the ages of 6-17 in the UK and Ireland.

Despite not being used by all schools, more than half use it.

By identifying students' learning and thinking styles, this assessment helps teachers and staff better support them.

In a similar way to an IQ test for adults, the CAT4 exam measures students' strengths and weaknesses.

This test allows educators to tailor their lessons to different students with different needs.

There are seven levels of difficulty for CAT4 tests, depending on the age group:

• Year 2: Level X (6–7 years)
• Year 3: Level Y (7–8)
• Year 4: Level A (8–9)
• Year 5: Level B (9–10)
• Year 6: Level C (10–11)
• Year 7: Level D (11–12)
• Year 8: Level E (12–13)
• Years 9 + 10: Level F (13–15)
• Years 11+: Level G (15–17+)

What Is the CAT4 Test Level C?

The CAT4 Level C test is designed for students in Year 6 (or Primary 7 in Scotland), making it suitable for use in testing children aged between 9.5 and 12.

As with the Level A to G tests in the CAT4, the assessment consists of four different question types – spatial reasoning, verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning. Each of these question areas is broken into two subsections.

The test itself is delivered in three parts.

The first part consists of the non-verbal reasoning questions, with 48 questions and a 20-minute time limit split equally between figure classification and figure matrices.

The second part of the test has three subsections. Both the verbal classification and the verbal analogies subsection have 24 questions that need to be answered in 10 minutes, while the number analogies subsection has just 18 questions with a 10-minute time limit.

The final part of the assessment consists of 18 number series questions to be answered in eight minutes, and 36 questions to be answered in 18 minutes, split equally between figure analysis and figure recognition.

CAT4 Test Level C Sections Explained

Let's delve deeper into the specifics of each section of the CAT4 Test Level C:

CAT4 Level C Figure Classification

Within the Figure Classification section, participants are tasked with identifying distinctive patterns among an assortment of shapes or figures and singling out the one that differs due to unique characteristics.

This segment assesses the capacity to recognise relationships and variations among visual elements, refining the skill of classifying objects based on their individual attributes.

CAT4 Level C Figure Matrices

The Figure Matrices component involves individuals in completing a visual analogy or pattern within a matrix. Test-takers must choose the appropriate shape or figure to fill an empty cell within the matrix.

This section challenges logical reasoning and the ability to perceive and extend visual patterns, fostering analytical thinking and enhancing proficiency in pattern recognition.

CAT4 Level C Verbal Classification

In Verbal Classification, individuals must identify the word that distinguishes itself from a given group of words. This necessitates discerning semantic relationships and pinpointing the word that deviates from the established pattern.

This assessment of verbal reasoning abilities underscores the capability to differentiate between words based on their meanings and semantic connections.

CAT4 Level C Verbal Analogies

Verbal Analogies require participants to infer word relationships by selecting the word that demonstrates a connection similar to the second word's association with the third word.

This segment assesses proficiency in identifying and applying logical relationships within language, cultivating skills in analogy and inference.

CAT4 Level C Number Analogies

Much like Verbal Analogies, Number Analogies involve deciphering numerical analogies. Test-takers determine the number that establishes a relationship with the second number akin to the first number's association with the third.

This section applies logical reasoning to numerical relationships, evaluating the proficiency to recognise and apply patterns within a numerical context.

CAT4 Level C Number Series

In the Number Series section, participants are challenged with recognising the pattern or rule governing a sequence of numbers and selecting the appropriate number to extend the series.

This segment assesses proficiency in identifying and extending numerical patterns, refining skills in numerical reasoning, and analysing sequences.

CAT4 Level C Figure Analysis

Figure Analysis requires predicting the subsequent figure in a sequence by identifying the fundamental pattern or rule. Examinees must employ analytical skills to recognise and extend visual sequences.

This section challenges analytical thinking and pattern recognition within a visual framework, fostering the capability to discern and prolong visual patterns.

CAT4 Level C Figure Recognition

In the Figure Recognition section, individuals are tasked with isolating a specific figure from a set of choices that aligns with a provided pattern or criteria.

This segment assesses proficiency in recognising and aligning visual stimuli based on predetermined patterns or characteristics, enhancing skills in visual discrimination.

Level C CAT4 Test Example Questions

CAT4 Test Level C Figure Classification Example Question

CAT4 Test Level C Verbal Analogies Example Question

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

The CAT4 Level C assessment is a powerful tool for comprehensively evaluating students' cognitive abilities.

Its four-dimensional approach, encompassing verbal, non-verbal, quantitative, and spatial reasoning, provides educators with a holistic view of students' cognitive profiles.

By dynamically adapting to individual responses, the CAT4 Level C ensures accurate and personalised assessments, guiding educators in tailoring interventions and curricula to meet students' needs effectively.

Despite its strengths, it's crucial to recognise the limitations of standardised assessments like the CAT4 Level C.

While it offers valuable insights, it's just one facet of understanding students' capabilities. Socio-economic factors, cultural influences, and personal experiences play significant roles in shaping students' academic performance and should be considered alongside assessment results.

In conclusion, the CAT4 Level C is vital in educational assessment, facilitating informed decision-making and targeted interventions. By leveraging its insights alongside other contextual factors, educators can create inclusive learning environments that support diverse student needs and foster holistic development.